JP2006314439A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a slot machine capable of appropriately executing the process of an internal lottery without varying a setting value despite a manager's intention. <P>SOLUTION: This game machine is provided with a storage means storing a setting value set by a setting means, and a storage content determination means determining whether the storage content of the storage means is normal or not when supplying a power again from a state where the power supply from a power supply means supplying an operation power necessary for the progress of a game is stopped; and, when determining that the content of the storage means is not normal, the control by a game control means is suspended. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine capable of setting a setting value that determines the level of profits received by a player.

  As a prior art related to this type of gaming machine, there is a slot machine that can variably set a setting value that determines a winning occurrence rate (winning rate) (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In this known slot machine, a symbol or the like is variably displayed as a multiplier for each game, and when the display result at the time of stoppage is in a predetermined mode, a winning is generated and the game A value such as a prize medal is given to the person. The rate at which a winning is generated (winning rate) is determined by six preset setting values (1 to 6). The lower the setting value, the lower the winning rate in the slot machine. The higher the set value, the higher the winning rate.

  In this way, the set value determines the relationship between the number of values multiplied by the player in one slot machine and the number of values given to the player by winning a prize (adjusting the machine discount / outage rate) Therefore, the game hall operator determines the set value level (1 to 6) for each slot machine in consideration of the level of profit given to the player. Therefore, normally, all the slot machines in the amusement hall are not unified with extreme setting values, and various setting values are set for each unit. For this reason, if the player finds it interesting to find a table with a set value as high as possible in the amusement hall, and if the player plays a game on the table he has chosen, he can obtain more value. The player can feel great satisfaction that the player's choice was correct (searching for a table with a high setting value).

  In a known slot machine, the winning rate setting value is stored in a storage means such as a RAM, and control is performed to generate a winning according to the stored setting value during a game operation. Is detected, the RAM is initialized and the stored contents are updated to the central set value (setting 3). For this reason, according to a known slot machine, the stored contents of the RAM are not forcibly rewritten to an extreme set value. Therefore, even if the game is continued after returning from the abnormality, Only one of the players will not suffer unilaterally.

JP 2000-102641 A (page 2-3, FIG. 5)

  However, in the case of a known slot machine, the set value is forcibly updated to the median value, even though it is to recover from an abnormal operation, so if the set value before the occurrence of the error was not the median value The game is played in a state where the set value is changed without permission, contrary to the intention of the game hall operator. For this reason, for example, although the game hall operator originally adopted a relatively low set value, the set value was high after returning from the abnormality, and as a result, the game hall operator expected It will give more value to the player.

  On the other hand, even if the game hall operator dares to adopt a high setting value, it will be pulled back to an intermediate setting value after returning from the abnormality, so the player has a high setting. Despite believing that it was a value and being immersed in the game, it felt like it had been replaced with an intermediate setting value on the way.

  Therefore, the present invention provides a technique that prevents a change in the set value from causing a result that is contrary to the intention of the game hall operator, and that the player does not lose interest.

(Solution 1)
When the game machine of the present invention receives a start operation by a player with a predetermined number of game values for each game, the game machine rotates a plurality of movable display bodies having a symbol row formed on the surface in one direction. The display of the symbols is changed, and after that, when a plurality of stop operations are sequentially received by the player, the rotation of the movable display bodies is stopped one by one in the order in which the stop operations are received, and all the movable display bodies are In a gaming machine that determines the result of a game based on the display mode of a symbol when the rotation of the game stops, an internal lottery means for performing a predetermined internal lottery for each game and determining a winning result, As a lottery winning result, a small role defining means for prescribing a small role with game value addition, and as a winning result of the internal lottery, a special winning type defining means for defining a special winning type different from the small role, If a symbol corresponding to the small role is displayed in a prescribed manner when all of the movable display bodies are stopped in a game played in a general normal gaming state, the number of game values corresponding to the small role is displayed to the player. Even if the game value granting means to be given to the player and the game corresponding to the normal game state are displayed in a prescribed manner when the symbols corresponding to the special winning type are displayed when all the movable display bodies are stopped, Game ending means for ending the current game without giving value, and symbols corresponding to the special winning types are displayed in a prescribed manner when all the movable display bodies are stopped in the game played in the normal gaming state. When the current game is finished without giving a game value by the game ending means, the special game state transition means for making a transition to a special game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state. And a small role probability fixing means that does not change the probability of winning the small role in the internal lottery for each game, even when the special game state is entered, and the special game state is entered and specified. If the condition is satisfied, a special winning probability changing means for changing the probability of winning a special winning type different from the small role and the special winning type in the internal lottery than the normal gaming state to the player, Setting means for setting a set value that determines the level of profit to be given in a plurality of stages within a predetermined range, and determining the winning probability of the internal lottery based on the setting value set by the setting means The winning probability defining means and a setting changing means for changing the set value set by the setting means based on the changing operation within the specified range when a predetermined changing operation is accepted And a change operation input means for inputting the change operation to the setting change means, a state in which the change operation can be input to the setting change means, and a state in which the input of the change operation is impossible A setting change state switching unit, and a setting for displaying the current setting value set by the setting unit when the setting change state switching unit is switched to a state in which the change operation can be input to the setting change unit. When the change operation is input to the setting change unit in a state in which the change operation can be input to the value display unit and the setting change unit, the current setting value is a candidate set value after the change When a specific change confirmation operation is accepted in a state where the setting value candidate switching means for switching to the setting change means and input of the change operation to the setting change means are possible, And a change confirmation means for confirming the setting value that is the candidate after the change as a setting value to be changed by the setting change means, and information relating to the progress of the game including the setting value set by the setting means. Storage means, power supply means for managing the supply of operating power necessary for the progress of the game, game control means for receiving the operation power from the power management means and controlling the progress of the game, and the game control means Storage content determination means for determining whether or not the storage content of the storage means is normal when the supply of operating power is newly started by the power supply means from the state where the supply of operating power to is stopped And a control stopping unit that stops the control by the game control unit when the stored content determining unit determines that the stored content of the storage unit is not normal.

In the gaming machine of the present invention, when the supply of operating power by the power supply means is started, it is determined whether or not the storage contents of the storage means are normal. Without requesting input of setting change operation. In other words, in the gaming machine of the present invention, when the stored content determining means determines that the storage content of the storage means is not normal, the change operation input to the setting changing means is performed before the game progress control is executed by the game control means. Request.
In this case, the game hall operator (game machine manager) can input the setting change operation again to restore (reset) the originally intended setting value. For this reason, even if the stored content of the game progress information including the set value is destroyed or altered when the power is turned on, the set value content is rewritten without permission in the storage means unless the set value is changed. Therefore, the setting value is changed without permission from the game hall operator, and the game does not proceed unexpectedly based on the changed setting value. Therefore, despite the fact that the player has unilaterally obtained excessive profits against the will of the game hall operator, or that the player has presumed that it is a high set value at his own judgment, There is no situation where the set value changes without permission and only a small profit can be received against the player's expectation. Thereby, the profit balance with the player based on the management judgment of the game hall operator is kept good. In addition, if a player chooses a stand (individual gaming machine) by assuming that the set value is high by his / her own judgment and plays a game on that stand, the result is correctly calculated as the level of profit received by the player. Since it can be reflected, the interest of choosing a stand by the player is not impaired.

  Note that the storage means can retain the stored contents for a certain period even after the supply of operating power is interrupted, and the stored contents include information on the progress of the game including the set values (in addition to the set values, Whether the game state or the special game state, the multiplication value of the game value is determined, or whether the internal lottery is won or not, etc.). The game control means can restore the power-off state based on the information stored in the storage means when the supply of operating power is started again by the power supply management means after the power is turned off. Therefore, the game control means can control the progress of the game by returning to the power-off state based on the information if the stored contents of the storage means are normal at the start of supply of operating power. If the stored contents are damaged or missing due to some reason (external radio wave or noise intervention, etc.), the progress of the game cannot be controlled normally as it is, and the setting value information has been altered or lost. There is a possibility of being broken. Therefore, in the gaming machine of the present invention, when it is determined that the storage content of the storage means is not normal at the start of supply of operating power, the setting value intended by the game hall operator is requested by requesting the input of the setting value. The game is started from the initial state by executing a process for initializing the storage contents of the storage means with respect to other information.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, when the player performs a start operation with the game value multiplied, a plurality of movable display bodies rotate, and thereafter, when rotation of all the movable display bodies is stopped by the player's stop operation, The result of the game is determined by the combination of symbols composed of symbols stopped in the symbol display section. That is, in one game in the gaming machine of the present invention, the game value is multiplied, the movable display body in a stopped state is rotated, and then the rotation of the movable display body is stopped. It consists of a series of processes in which the result is always judged when all the movable display bodies are stopped. Therefore, once the result is judged once when all the movable display bodies are stopped, the process of setting the game value or rotating the movable display body after that is the next game. become. In addition, in the game that is played in the normal gaming state, when the symbols corresponding to the special winning type are displayed in a prescribed manner when all the movable display bodies are stopped, the current game ends without giving a gaming value, When it is determined that the symbol corresponding to the special winning type has been displayed in the prescribed mode, the normal gaming state shifts to the special gaming state, so when the game value is multiplied in the next game, it is already in the special gaming state. It has migrated.

  The internal lottery performed for each game is triggered by the player's starting operation. “Internal” here means that the lottery is performed where the player is not aware of the contents of the lottery and the player cannot perceive. This is performed by a control device (control board) to be controlled. As an internal lottery method, random numbers are generated within a predetermined numerical range (within the range from the minimum random number value to the maximum random number value), and one random number is acquired for each game. There is one that determines the lottery result by comparing the value of one random number with a predetermined hit value.

  In the internal lottery, a plurality of types of winning results are prepared, and a random value win value is assigned to each type of winning result. Each winning value has a range (numerical value range) for each type, and if the acquired random number value is within the range of any winning value, it is determined that the type corresponding to that winning value has been won. . In such an internal lottery system, the winning probability for each type of winning result is defined from the ratio of the number of winning values in all random numbers.

  The winning result of the internal lottery performed in one game is maintained at least in the game. Among the multiple types of winning results, there are types where the results are discarded as long as the game is concerned, and there are types where the results are carried over to the next and subsequent games.

  As a winning result of the internal lottery, at least a small part accompanied by a game value is defined in the gaming machine of the present invention. In addition to such small roles, special winning types are defined as winning results. These small roles and special winning types have corresponding small role symbols and special winning symbols, respectively, and these symbols are respectively assigned to the movable display bodies. That is, the symbols associated with the type of the winning result are included in the symbol row attached to the movable display. The “design” means a picture, a symbol, a mark, a decorative character, or the like that allows the player to visually identify each individual.

  When the small role symbols are stopped in a specific manner when all the movable display bodies are stopped, a specified number of game values are given to the player. The “specific mode” here means the stop position, arrangement, combination, etc. of the symbols in the symbol display section, and generally the corresponding symbols are arranged horizontally or diagonally across a plurality of movable display bodies. It means that Note that there are some small role symbols that need only stop at a position where a corresponding small role symbol for at least a specific movable display body is determined. In any case, if the total number of game values given by the player increases as the number of games increases, the player has obtained the game value for the difference. , You can find joy there.

  The above small role is to give a specified number of game values to the player when the corresponding symbol stops in a specific manner, but apart from this, in the gaming machine of the present invention, a general normal gaming state When the special winning symbol is stopped in a specific manner in this game, the game shifts to a special game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state. By shifting to this special game state, the player is given an opportunity to acquire more game value compared to the normal game state. For this reason, in the gaming machine of the present invention, how to increase the number of times of transition to the special gaming state becomes a turning point of the game, so the player's interest is the special winning symbol when and when It tends to concentrate on what can be arranged in.

  However, the frequency at which the game value can be acquired by the small role and the frequency at which it can shift to the special gaming state depends on the winning probability in the internal lottery after all. The above set values (stepwise settings). Therefore, in the gaming machine of the present invention, the higher the set value is set, the higher the frequency at which the game value can be acquired by the small role and the frequency at which the game value can be shifted to the special game state. It turns out that becomes high.

(Solution 2)
Alternatively, the gaming machine of the present invention has an independent configuration. That is, when the gaming machine of the present invention receives a start operation by a player with a predetermined number of game values multiplied for each game, a plurality of movable display bodies having a symbol array formed on the surface are arranged in one direction. Rotating to change the display of the symbol, and then sequentially receiving a plurality of stop operations by the player, the rotation of the movable display body is stopped one by one in the order in which the stop operations are received, and all the movable displays An internal lottery means for performing a predetermined internal lottery for each game and determining a winning result in a gaming machine that determines a game result based on a display mode of a symbol when the body rotation stops; As a result of the internal lottery, a small role defining means for defining a small role with a game value added, and as a result of winning the internal lottery, a special winning type rule for defining a special winning type different from the small role If a symbol corresponding to the small role is displayed in a prescribed manner when all the movable display bodies are stopped in a game played in a general normal gaming state, the number of game values corresponding to the small role is displayed. A game value giving means for giving the player a game value, and a symbol corresponding to the special winning type is displayed in a prescribed manner when all the movable display bodies are stopped in the game played in the normal game state. In addition, a game ending means for ending the current game without giving a game value, and a design corresponding to the special winning type when all the movable display bodies are stopped in the game played in the normal gaming state When the current game is finished without giving a game value by the game ending means, a special game letter that shifts to a special game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state is displayed. A transition means, a small role probability fixing means that does not change a probability of winning the small role in the internal lottery for each game, even when transitioning to the special gaming state, and a transition to the special gaming state, and A special winning probability changing means for changing the probability of winning a special winning type different from the small role and the special winning type in the internal lottery in the internal lottery when the specific condition is satisfied; Setting means for setting the level of profit given to the user in multiple stages within a predetermined range, and the winning probability of the internal lottery based on the setting value set by the setting means And a setting for changing the set value set by the setting means based on the change operation within the specified range upon accepting a predetermined change operation. A change means, a change operation input means for inputting the change operation to the setting change means, a state in which the change operation can be input to the setting change means, and a state in which the input of the change operation is impossible When the setting change state switching means is switched to a state in which the change operation can be input to the setting change means by the setting change state switching means, the current setting value set by the setting means is displayed. When the change operation is input to the setting change unit in a state in which the change operation can be input to the setting value display unit and the setting change unit, the current set value becomes a candidate after the change. When a specific change confirmation operation is accepted in a state where the setting value candidate switching means for switching to the setting value and the change operation to the setting change means can be input, A change confirmation means for confirming the setting value that is the candidate after the change at the time of setting as a setting value to be changed by the setting change means; a setting storage means for storing the setting value set by the setting means; A power supply means for managing the supply of operating power necessary for the progress of the game; a game control means for controlling the progress of the game by receiving the operating power supplied from the power management means; When the lottery means executes the internal lottery with reference to the winning probability determined by the probability defining means, it is determined which of the specified values the setting value stored in the setting storage means falls within If the setting range determining means determines that the setting value stored in the setting storage means does not fall within any of the specified ranges, It stops the control of the control unit and a game progress stop means to stop the progress of the game.

  As described above, the set value needs to be surely determined even after being set by the game hall operator. For this reason, in the gaming machine of the present invention, the setting value is stored by the setting storage means (the storage means in the solution means 1), and the content is stably held, and can be used and referenced whenever necessary. Adopted (common to solving means 1 and 2). However, if any changes are made to the storage contents of the setting storage means (storage means), or if the stored contents are destroyed or lost, the setting values are not yet determined. In this way, if the game progresses in a state where the set value has not yet been determined, the standard (guideline) itself that determines the degree of profit received by the player is not fixed in the first place, so game value should be given for each game It is not possible to determine whether or not to shift to the special gaming state. In this case, the player cannot expect a reward for multiplying the game value, and the game venue operator cannot give a profit corresponding to the game value multiplied by the player. Lack of profit balance.

  For this reason, in the gaming machine of the present invention, in the internal lottery performed for each game, it is determined whether the stored content of the set value falls within the prescribed range, and if it is determined that it does not correspond to any Make sure to stop the game and input the setting change operation. That is, in the gaming machine of the present invention, when the setting range determination unit determines that the setting value stored in the setting storage unit does not fall within any of the specified ranges, the change operation on the setting change unit Change operation requesting means for requesting input. In this case, the game hall operator (game machine manager) can return to the original setting value (re-set) by re-entering the setting change operation. The setting value is changed without permission, and the game does not proceed based on the changed setting value. Therefore, despite the fact that the player has unilaterally obtained excessive profits against the will of the game hall operator, or that the player has presumed that it is a high set value at his own judgment, There is no situation where the set value changes without permission and only a small profit can be received against the player's expectation. As a result, the profit balance with the player based on the management judgment of the game hall operator is kept good, and both the game hall operator and the player do not suffer unexpected disadvantages and are extremely useful for both. It becomes. In addition, if a player chooses a stand (individual gaming machine) by assuming that the set value is high by his / her own judgment and plays a game on that stand, the result is correctly calculated as the level of profit received by the player. Since it can be reflected, the interest of choosing a stand by the player is not impaired.

  In determining whether “the stored set value falls within a specified range”, it is also possible to determine “whether the stored set value is within a specified range”. That is, if the result of the determination is “the stored set value does not fall within any of the specified ranges”, it means “the stored set value is not within the specified range”.

  In addition, the gaming machine (solution 2) of the present invention is information regarding the progress of the game including the set value (in addition to the set value, whether it is a normal game state or a special game state, a game value multiplier is determined, Storage means for storing information such as whether or not the lottery is won or not may be provided. In such an aspect, after the setting value is changed by the setting change operation, the game can be started from the initial state by executing processing for initializing information other than the setting value. In this case, the game does not progress in a state where the stored contents other than the set values are defective, so that the game progresses smoothly.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, when the player performs a start operation with the game value multiplied, a plurality of movable display bodies rotate, and thereafter, when rotation of all the movable display bodies is stopped by the player's stop operation, The result of the game is determined by the combination of symbols composed of symbols stopped in the symbol display section. That is, in one game in the gaming machine of the present invention, the game value is multiplied, the movable display body in a stopped state is rotated, and then the rotation of the movable display body is stopped. It consists of a series of processes in which the result is always judged when all the movable display bodies are stopped. Therefore, once the result is judged once when all the movable display bodies are stopped, the process of setting the game value or rotating the movable display body after that is the next game. become. In addition, in the game that is played in the normal gaming state, when the symbols corresponding to the special winning type are displayed in a prescribed manner when all the movable display bodies are stopped, the current game ends without giving a gaming value, When it is determined that the symbol corresponding to the special winning type has been displayed in the prescribed mode, the normal gaming state shifts to the special gaming state, so when the game value is multiplied in the next game, it is already in the special gaming state. It has migrated.

  The internal lottery performed for each game is triggered by the player's starting operation. “Internal” here means that the lottery is performed where the player is not aware of the contents of the lottery and the player cannot perceive. This is performed by a control device (control board) to be controlled. As an internal lottery method, random numbers are generated within a predetermined numerical range (within the range from the minimum random number value to the maximum random number value), and one random number is acquired for each game. There is one that determines the lottery result by comparing the value of one random number with a predetermined hit value.

  In the internal lottery, a plurality of types of winning results are prepared, and a random value win value is assigned to each type of winning result. Each winning value has a range (numerical value range) for each type, and if the acquired random number value is within the range of any winning value, it is determined that the type corresponding to that winning value has been won. . In such an internal lottery system, the winning probability for each type of winning result is defined from the ratio of the number of winning values in all random numbers.

  The winning result of the internal lottery performed in one game is maintained at least in the game. Among the multiple types of winning results, there are types where the results are discarded as long as the game is concerned, and there are types where the results are carried over to the next and subsequent games.

  As a winning result of the internal lottery, at least a small part accompanied by a game value is defined in the gaming machine of the present invention. In addition to such small roles, special winning types are defined as winning results. These small roles and special winning types have corresponding small role symbols and special winning symbols, respectively, and these symbols are respectively assigned to the movable display bodies. That is, the symbols associated with the type of the winning result are included in the symbol row attached to the movable display. The “design” means a picture, a symbol, a mark, a decorative character, or the like that allows the player to visually identify each individual.

  When the small role symbols are stopped in a specific manner when all the movable display bodies are stopped, a specified number of game values are given to the player. The “specific mode” here means the stop position, arrangement, combination, etc. of the symbols in the symbol display section, and generally the corresponding symbols are arranged horizontally or diagonally across a plurality of movable display bodies. It means that Note that there are some small role symbols that need only stop at a position where a corresponding small role symbol for at least a specific movable display body is determined. In any case, if the total number of game values given by the player increases as the number of games increases, the player has obtained the game value for the difference. , You can find joy there.

  The above small role is to give a specified number of game values to the player when the corresponding symbol stops in a specific manner, but apart from this, in the gaming machine of the present invention, a general normal gaming state When the special winning symbol is stopped in a specific manner in this game, the game shifts to a special game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state. By shifting to this special game state, the player is given an opportunity to acquire more game value compared to the normal game state. For this reason, in the gaming machine of the present invention, how to increase the number of times of transition to the special gaming state becomes a turning point of the game, so the player's interest is the special winning symbol when and when It tends to concentrate on what can be arranged in.

  However, the frequency at which the game value can be acquired by the small role and the frequency at which it can shift to the special gaming state depends on the winning probability in the internal lottery after all. The above set values (stepwise settings). Therefore, in the gaming machine of the present invention, the higher the set value is set, the higher the frequency at which the game value can be acquired by the small role and the frequency at which the game value can be shifted to the special game state. It turns out that becomes high.

(Solution 3)
In the solving means 1, the gaming machine of the present invention indicates that there is a problem in the contents of the set value set by the setting means when the stored content judging means determines that the stored contents of the storage means are not normal. It further comprises setting failure disclosure means to be disclosed.

  Normally, the set value is a secret item strictly managed by the game hall operator, and the information of the set value is not easily disclosed outside the gaming machine (the gaming machine itself displays the set value). . In this way, since the setting values stored in the storage means are information that cannot be easily known from the outside, the stored contents of the setting values determined for each table may be altered, or the stored contents may be destroyed, missing, etc. Even if this occurs, it is not easy for the game hall operator to discover this one by one. Therefore, in this solution, if there is a problem with the contents of the set value, the fact that it is disclosed to the outside of the gaming machine (not only secretly at this time, dare to inform), it is easy for the game hall operator Adopting a configuration that can detect defects in set values. In this case, since the game hall operator can accurately know that a problem has occurred in the set value, the management system of the gaming machine is greatly improved.

(Solution 4)
Alternatively, in the solving means 2, the gaming machine according to the present invention is configured so that the setting range determining means determines that the setting value stored in the setting storage means does not fall within any of the specified ranges. The apparatus further comprises a setting defect disclosure means for disclosing that there is a defect in the content of the setting value set by the means.

  Also in this case, similarly to the solution means 3, the game hall operator can accurately know that a problem has occurred in the setting value stored in the setting storage means, so the management system of the gaming machine is greatly improved.

(Solution 5)
In the solving means 1 to 4, in the gaming machine of the present invention, when the input of the change operation to the setting change means is requested by the change operation request means, the setting change means changes the setting value based on the change operation. It is further provided with a game progress permission means for permitting the game control means to execute control of the progress of the game only when the game is performed.

  In this case, if it is detected that the set value is not within the specified range when the power is turned on, the progress of the game is not permitted unless the game hall operator changes the set value. The set value is not automatically determined during the (power-on process). Therefore, if there is a problem with the contents of the set value when the power is turned on, the game can proceed with the setting value restored to the setting value originally intended by the game hall operator. Useful for each operator and player.

(Solution 6)
In the solving means 2 to 4, the gaming machine of the present invention is such that when the progress of the game is stopped by the game progress stopping means, only when the setting value is changed based on the changing operation by the setting changing means. The game control means further includes a game progress permission means for allowing the game progress control to be executed.

  In this case, the progress of the game can be resumed not only by the game value being simply stopped due to a defect in the set value but also by the game hall operator changing the set value. However, since the game can be resumed only when a setting change operation is performed, the setting value is not automatically determined in the process executed in the gaming machine. Therefore, even if a failure occurs in the contents of the setting value, the game can be resumed in a state where the setting is restored to the setting value originally intended by the game hall operator. Useful for each operator and player.

(Solution 7)
In the solving means 1 to 6, in the gaming machine of the present invention, the input to the setting change means is requested by the change operation requesting means, and the setting change state switching means switches the setting change means to the setting change means. Out-of-range display means for displaying that the set value is not within the specified range instead of displaying the current set value by the set value display means when the change operation is switched to a possible state And even when the change confirmation operation is input to the change confirmation means in a state where the setting value is not within the specified range by the out-of-range display means, It further comprises change confirmation operation invalidating means for invalidating acceptance of the change confirmation operation.

  In the normal setting changing operation, the current setting value (the setting value that becomes a candidate after the change) is displayed by the setting value display means, so the game hall operator determines a desired setting value while checking this display. Then, an operation for finalizing this is performed. However, if the game cannot be progressed due to a problem with the setting value and a setting change operation is performed to restore it, if the change confirmation operation is performed with the setting value still undecided, the setting is still within the specified range. The game will proceed without recovering the value.

  For this reason, in this solution, when a setting change operation is performed due to a problem with the setting value, the setting change is confirmed with a display (error display) indicating that the setting value is not within the specified range. Even if an operation is performed, the operation is invalidated. As a result, a situation in which the game progresses in a state in which the set value is uncertain is surely avoided, which is beneficial to both the game hall operator and the player as described above.

(Solution 8)
In the solving means 1 to 7, the game control means monitors the output voltage of the operating power supplied from the power management means, and outputs a power failure warning signal when it is predicted that the supply of the operating power will be stopped. The monitoring unit has a plurality of input paths for inputting the power failure warning signal, and among these, from a predetermined input path, the input state of the power failure warning signal is confirmed as necessary, while from a specific input path. Includes a control processing unit that preferentially receives the input of the power failure warning signal, and the control processing unit controls the progress of the game when receiving the input of the power failure warning signal from the specific input path. Shifts to a state in which interruption processing at power failure for saving the progress of the game is executed, and in the interruption processing at power failure, a predetermined input path different from the specific input path is selected. As a result of confirming whether or not a power failure warning signal is input, if the power failure warning signal is input, the interruption processing at the time of the power failure is continued, and if the power failure warning signal is not input, the game progress control is resumed. It is preferable to do.

  In this case, if it is predicted that the supply of power necessary for the operation of the gaming machine will be stopped, the control processing unit immediately executes the interruption process at the time of power failure. By doing so, it is possible to appropriately determine how to perform subsequent processing. In other words, even if the control processing unit shifts to interruption processing at power failure, if a power failure warning signal is not actually output from the power monitoring unit, it will cause some disturbance to a specific input path to the control processing unit. This is probably because (electric noise, etc.) had an effect. In this case, since the control processing unit returns to the state in which the progress of the game is controlled as it was, a situation where the interruption processing at the time of a power failure continues as it is can be effectively avoided.

  In this regard, for example, when interruption processing at power failure is frequently executed due to the influence of noise or the like, processing for saving (backup) the storage contents of the storage means is frequently performed in order to save the progress of the game. However, if such processing is frequently performed, the stored contents of the set value may be destroyed or lost due to some influence. However, in the present solution, the contents of the set value are thus defective. The factor can be effectively removed.

(Solution 9)
Alternatively, in the solving means 1 to 7, the power supply management means includes a power supply monitoring unit that monitors the output voltage of the operating power and outputs a power failure warning signal when the stop of the supply of the operating power is predicted, and the game control The means has a plurality of input paths for inputting the power failure warning signal, and among these, from a predetermined input path, the input status of the power failure warning signal is confirmed as necessary, while from a specific input path. A control processing unit that preferentially accepts the input of the power failure warning signal, and the control processing unit receives the power failure warning signal from the specific input path and controls the progress of the game The state shifts to a state in which interruption processing at power failure for executing the progress state of the power supply is executed, and the previous input path different from the specific input route in the interruption processing at power failure As a result of confirming whether or not a power failure warning signal has been input, if the power failure warning signal is input, the interruption processing at the time of the power failure is continued, and if there is no power failure warning signal input, the state returns to a state in which the progress of the game is controlled. An aspect may be sufficient.

  In this case as well as the solving means 8, a situation in which the interruption processing at the time of a power failure is inadvertently continued in the control processing section is effectively avoided.

  The gaming machine of the present invention can advance the game in a state that is beneficial to both the game hall operator and the player, and therefore does not hinder the independent management judgment of the game hall operator. When a table having a setting value advantageous to the player is selected, the player can properly receive a profit commensurate with the selection, so that it is difficult to cause a decrease in interest until the end.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a slot machine (one aspect of a spinning cylinder type gaming machine) will be described with reference to the drawings.

(1. Overview of Embodiment)
FIG. 1 shows a slot machine 1 which is an embodiment of a rotating type gaming machine. The slot machine 1 of FIG. 1 is of a type that can play a game using a medal (game medal) as a game medium as a game value. The game value has a value that is a target to be played for each game in a game hall (hall) or a target to be paid out as a privilege according to the result of the game.

  In addition to this, for the revolving type game machine, a type using a game ball as a game value (a game machine that performs a slot machine game using a game ball) and a recording medium (magnetic card, IC card) for recording the game value as information Etc.), and this type is also suitable as an embodiment. Further, in implementing the present invention, no substantial difference is caused regardless of which type is applied.

(1. Overview of slot machines)
A main body (game machine main body) of the slot machine 1 includes a box-shaped main body 2 and a front door 4 (front member). In FIG. 1, the main body 2 is hidden behind the front door 4, and the outer shape viewed from the front is substantially the same as the front door 4. That is, the main body 2 has a vertically long box shape, and the opening on the front side thereof is tightly closed by the front door 4. Although not shown in FIG. 1, the interior of the main body 2 is an accommodation space having a certain depth, and various components are accommodated therein.

(1-1. Front member)
The front door 4 is joined to the main body 2 via a hinge mechanism at the left end thereof, and the front door 4 can be opened and closed with the left side as a base end by the function of the hinge mechanism. Although not shown in FIG. 1, a lock device having a latch mechanism is provided at the right side end portion of the front door 4 on the back side, while the right side wall of the main body portion 2 is provided with a lock mechanism. A striker is installed at the inner position. As shown in the figure, when the front door 4 closes the front surface of the main body 2, the striker of the main body 2 receives the latch mechanism of the front door 4 and engages with the latches (locking pieces, locking claws, etc.). The front door 4 is locked.

  In addition, a key cylinder portion 48 with a key hole is installed on the right edge of the front door 4. If a dedicated key managed in the hole is inserted into the key hole and twisted clockwise, The striker and the latch of the front door 4 are disengaged, and the front door 4 is unlocked. In this state, when the manager of the hall pulls the front door 4 to the labor side, the front door 4 can be opened in a single-open manner.

  The front door 4 is usually a member facing the player from the front, and therefore decorative elements are arranged on the front door 4 in various places. That is, the surface of the front door 4 is plated (chrome plating, colored chrome plating, gold plating, etc.), so that the front door 4 can be viewed as a whole with a metallic and solid image. Giving.

(1-2. Image display device)
The front door 4 is provided with a relatively large liquid crystal display device 58 in the upper half thereof. The liquid crystal display device 58 is installed along the front surface of the front door 4, so that the player can visually recognize the liquid crystal display device 58 almost from the front. The width of the liquid crystal display device 58 is greatly expanded in the width direction of the front door 4, and the length in the vertical direction is large enough to occupy almost the entire upper half from the center of the front door 4 (the screen size is 19 inches).

(1-3. Symbol display part)
On the display screen (display area) of the liquid crystal display device 58, a display window 6 is formed at a position slightly below the center. The display window 6 has a horizontally long rectangular shape, and the liquid crystal display device 58 is transparent at the portion of the display window 6. That is, the liquid crystal display device 58 is configured by superposing constituent members such as a light diffusion plate, a light guide plate, and a reflection plate behind the liquid crystal display panel on the front side. Components such as a diffusion plate, a light guide plate, and a reflection plate are not disposed, and only a liquid crystal display panel (a liquid crystal layer and two array substrates) is disposed. Therefore, in this embodiment, it is possible to visually recognize the back of the front door 4 (liquid crystal display device 58) through the display window 6.

(1-4. Movable display)
Three reels 10a, 10b and 10c are arranged in the back of the display window 6 as movable display bodies for displaying symbols. These three reels 10 a, 10 b, and 10 c are arranged at the back of the front door 4, that is, inside the main body 2. The three reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are arranged side by side in the main body 2, and are called as the left reel 10a, the middle reel 10b, and the right reel 10c, respectively, with their arrangement positions. .

(1-5. Operation unit)
In the front door 4, the liquid crystal display device 58 is entirely recessed, but the lower half of the front door 4 protrudes to the front side from the display window 6 (the screen of the liquid crystal display device 58). Therefore, a step in the front-rear direction is provided between the lower half portion and the liquid crystal display device 58. In order to fill this step, a medal slot 26 is provided on the right side of the lower half of the front door 4, and a 1-bet button 12 and a MAX-bet button 16 are arranged on the left side with an interval. ing.

  The player can insert medals one by one through the insertion slot 26, and the inserted medals are multiplied by the number of games (the number of bets), and medals inserted exceeding the maximum number of bets are stored as credits. The The player can determine the number of bets from the remaining credits by operating (pushing down) one of the bet buttons 12 and 16. Of these, the 1-bet button 12 located on the left end side corresponds to 1 bet (1 bet) in the first operation (in the state where there is no bet number), and the subsequent repetitive operation is to add the bet number one by one. Correspond. Therefore, if the player operates the 1-bet button 12 twice, the bet becomes 2 bets, and if the player operates once more, the bet becomes 3 bets. The other MAX bet button 16 corresponds to the maximum bet number in one operation. In the case of this embodiment, the maximum bet number is 3 in the base game or the small role game in the big bonus, and 1 in the regular bonus game (JAC game).

  A storage and settlement button 46 is arranged at the left end portion of the front door 4, and the player can operate the storage and settlement button 46 to settle credit and receive a medal return.

  The front door 4 is provided with a start lever 18 at a position below the bet buttons 12 and 16. The start lever 18 is disposed so as to protrude from the front door 4 to the front side. . The operating mode of the start lever 18 includes a pattern such as a push down, a push up, and a tilt in any direction including up, down, left and right. In any case, the player can start (start) the rotation of the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c by operating the start lever 18.

  Further, at the center position of the front door 4, three left stop buttons 20, middle stop buttons 22 and right stop buttons 24 are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction. After the start lever 18 is operated and the three reels 10a, 10b, and 10c rotate, when the player operates the left stop button 20, the middle stop button 22, and the right stop button 24 one by one (for example, push-in operation) The rotation of the left reel 10a, middle reel 10b, and right reel 10c corresponding to the operation order is stopped.

(1-6. Display unit)
The front door 4 is provided with three bet lamps (effective line lamps) 42a, 42b, and 42c at the upper position thereof, and the number of bets (1 to 3) for each game depending on the number of lighting of the bet lamps 42a to 42c. Is displayed. The three bet lamps 42a, 42b, 42c are arranged one above the other. When only the lowest bet lamp 42c is lit, 1 (1) is displayed as the number of bets, and the two bet lamps 42b, When both 42c are lit, 2 (two) is displayed as the bet number, and when three bet lamps 42a, 42b, 42c are lit, 3 is displayed as the bet number.

  Further, the front door 4 is provided with a credit number display section 30, a game number display section 32, and a payout number display section 34 at an upper position thereof. Various numerical information such as the number of payouts is displayed.

  The player only has to insert the number of medals corresponding to the required multiplier for each game, but by inserting the medals held by the player into the slot machine 1 in advance, The credit number display unit 30 displays the current credit number as a numerical value. In the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, the maximum value that can be stored as credit is a maximum of 50 medals. The credit amount display unit 30 also functions as a set value display unit (set value display means) that displays the set values (1 to 6) when the setting of the slot machine 1 is changed. The setting of the slot machine 1 will be further described later.

  Further, when medals are awarded to the player as a result of one game, the number of medals awarded is displayed numerically on the payout number display section 34. The payout number display section 34 also functions as an error display section that displays various types of errors (error codes) that have occurred in the slot machine 1.

  The number-of-games display section 32 displays the remaining number of small role games provided during the big bonus (BB) in a special gaming state, the remaining number of regular bonuses (RB), and the like. From this numerical display, the player can proceed with the game while confirming the number of remaining games in the big bonus and the regular bonus.

  Similarly, a medal-in lamp 36, a start lamp 28, and a bonus flag notification lamp 44 are arranged at an upper position of the front door 4. The medallion lamp 36 displays that it is possible to accept the insertion of medals when it is lit, and serves to encourage the player to insert medals. On the contrary, if the medal in lamp 36 is turned off, it means that the medal insertion cannot be accepted.

  In addition, the start lamp 28 displays that the operation of the start lever 18 can be accepted when the start lamp 28 is turned on, and serves to urge the player to operate the start lever 18. When the operation of the start lever 18 is effectively accepted, the start lamp 28 is turned off and the operation of the start lever 18 cannot be accepted.

  When the bonus flag notification lamp 44 is turned on, the bonus flag notification lamp 44 indicates that a big bonus or a regular bonus has been won internally (a state in which bonus symbols can be aligned). In addition, although not shown in FIG. 1, as a known display unit in the slot machine 1, a wait lamp for displaying a start waiting state of a reel, a replay lamp indicating that the current game is a replay, a bonus A status display lamp indicating that the game is in progress, a game overlamp indicating the end (stop) of the game, and the like can be provided.

  A decorative panel 50 is installed under the front door 4. The decorative panel 50 has a decorative design, in which the model name of the slot machine 1 and a decorative picture symbolizing the game concept are drawn, as well as the composition of the slot machine 1 and the number of payouts. Information is displayed.

  A medal payout opening 52 and a receiving tray 54 are formed at the lower edge of the front door 4, and the payout opening 52 is located at the back of the receiving tray 54. The medals paid out or returned from the payout opening 52 are received by the tray 54.

(1-7. Production elements)
In addition, the slot machine 1 is equipped with elements for performing effects as the game progresses. For example, a pair of speakers 56 (audio equipment) are installed on the left and right of the upper position of the front door 4. In addition, lamps 60, 62, 64 are installed on the left and right edges of the front door 4, and these lamps 60, 62, 64 have built-in LEDs as light emitters and a colorful front surface ( For example, red, blue, yellow, orange, etc.) are covered with a resin light diffusion cover.

(2. Internal configuration)
FIG. 2 shows the inside of the main body 2 with the front door 4 opened. Usually, the front door 4 is not frequently removed, but in order to facilitate understanding of the structure in FIG. 2, the front door 4 is shown as being removed for convenience.

(2-1. Reel)
A support shelf 2 a is provided inside the main body 2, and the support shelf 2 a extends left and right and front and rear so as to partition the inside of the main body 2 up and down. Three reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are installed on the support shelf 2a, and these reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are positions that can be visually recognized from the front side through the display window 6 with the front door 4 closed. It is in.

  Each of the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c is formed in a horizontal cylindrical shape, and a light-transmitting band material called a reel band is wound around the outer periphery. A plurality of (21 in the present embodiment) symbols are attached in a row to the reel band, and each reel 10a, 10b, 10c is wound by winding such a reel band. A symbol row is formed on the surface. There are several types of designs. For example, the numbers such as “7”, “BAR”, “JAC”, “REPLAY”, etc. Characters, figures, symbols, etc. that characterize the characters are included.

  A reel backlight 144 is disposed on the inner peripheral side of each of the reels 10a, 10b, 10c. The reel backlight 144 has an upper stage, a middle stage, and a lower stage within the display window 6 for each corresponding reel 10a, 10b, 10c. By applying a backlight (transmitted light) from behind to the symbol located at, the symbol can be lit and displayed.

(2-2. Hopper device)
In the main body 2, a hopper device 78 is installed on the upper surface of the bottom plate, and a medal auxiliary storage 84 is installed at a position on the right side of the hopper device 78. The hopper device 78 incorporates a motor and has a function of paying out medals stored one by one by driving the motor. The medals inserted from the insertion slot 26 are received by the hopper device 78 and stored here. The hopper device 78 has a capacity that can store a considerable number of medals (for example, about 2000). However, when the capacity is exceeded, the medals overflow to the right, and the overflow is stored in the medal auxiliary storage 84. It is stored in.

(2-3. Electronic equipment)
Various electronic devices are installed inside the main body 2. In FIG. 2, in addition to the power supply unit 70, main components include a main control board 92, a sub control board 94, and an external terminal board 96.

  The main control board 92 and the sub control board 94 are all installed in the main body 2 in a state of being accommodated in a resin board box. The substrate box serves as a protective case that obstructs contact with each substrate from the outside. In particular, the board box of the main control board 92 is closed so as not to be opened by a mechanical sealing part 92a (fastening part by a one-way screw). For this reason, even if an illegal chip or the like is to be incorporated into the main control board 92, it cannot be altered unless the board box is destroyed, so that a trace can be clearly left when an illegal alteration or the like is attempted. Further, a body fastening portion 92 b is formed in the substrate box, and the whole substrate box is firmly fastened to the body portion 2 via the body fastening portion 92. Therefore, the board box itself cannot be removed from the main body 2 for illegal purposes, and if it is attempted to be removed, the trace is clearly left.

(3. Internal structure of slot machine)
FIG. 3 schematically shows configurations of various mechanism elements, electronic devices, operation members, and the like equipped in the slot machine 1.

(3-1. Main control board [game control means])
The main control board 92 is for comprehensively controlling the progress of the game of the slot machine 1. Electronic components such as a CPU 110, a ROM 112, and a RAM 114 are mounted on the main control board 92 (in this example, a CPU with a built-in ROM / RAM). The main control board 92 has a function of performing an internal lottery mainly related to the player's profit and controlling the stop position of each reel 10a, 10b, 10c based on the lottery result.

  The main control board 92 is mounted with a power supply monitoring IC 116 (power supply monitoring unit). The power supply monitoring IC 116 has a function of monitoring the output voltage of the operating power (+ 24V, + 12V) supplied from the power supply unit 70. Have. For example, when the output voltage decreases (for example, decreases to +22 V or less) by an operation of turning off the power switch 76, the decrease is detected by the power monitoring IC 116. When power supply monitoring IC 116 detects a decrease in output voltage, it outputs a power failure signal (power failure notice signal).

  The CPU 110 has an INT terminal 110a for generating an external interrupt (maskable interrupt). The power failure signal output from the power monitoring IC 116 is branched into two signal paths and input to the CPU 110. One of the paths is connected to the INT terminal 110a of the CPU 110, and the other path is connected to the CPU 110. It is connected to the input port 110b. When a power failure signal is input to the INT terminal 110a of the CPU 110, the CPU 110 executes a power failure interrupt process as an interrupt process. That is, when the signal input to the INT terminal 110a is switched to the low level, the CPU 110 executes interrupt processing (power failure interrupt processing) in preference to the currently executed periodic processing (rotational game processing in FIG. 4). In this case, since the program counter of the CPU 110 is changed to the start address of the interrupt process, the CPU 110 immediately shifts to a state where the instruction set at the start address of the interrupt process is executed. When a non-maskable interrupt occurs in this way, the CPU 110 interrupts the periodic process currently being executed, and another process (interruption process at power failure) is preferentially executed by interrupting the periodic process. The power interruption interrupt process will be described later.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the 1-bet button 12, the MAX bet button 16, the start lever 18, the left stop button 20, the middle stop button 22, the right stop button 24, the storage settlement button 46, etc., which are the above-described operation units. Are connected to the main control board 92, and these operation parts detect an operation by the player using a sensor (not shown) and output an operation signal to the main control board 92.

  Further, the credit number display unit 30, the game number display unit 32, the payout number display unit 34, the medal in lamp 36, the start lamp 28, the bet lamps 42 a, 42 b, 42 c, etc., which are the above display units, are connected to the main control board 92. ing. The main control board 92 can display necessary information (lighting display, numerical display) on each display unit in the process of controlling the progress of the game.

  The slot machine 1 includes a left reel drive motor 88a, a middle reel drive motor 88b, and a right reel drive motor 88c for individually rotating the left reel 10a, the middle reel 10b, and the right reel 10c. These reel drive motors 88a, 88b, and 88c are stepping motors. Therefore, from the main control board 92, drive pulse signals for controlling the drive (rotation / stop) of the reel drive motors 88a, 88b, and 88c are individually provided. Is output.

  Further, the slot machine 1 has a left reel position sensor 106a, a middle reel position sensor 106b, and a right reel position sensor 106c in order to detect a reference position related to the rotation of each reel 10a, 10b, 10c. Detection signals (reference position signals) from 106a, 106b, and 106c are input to the main control board 92. Based on this detection signal, the main control board 92 determines the position relating to the rotation of each reel 10a, 10b, 10c (which position is present in the display window 6), and which symbol is displayed when it is stopped. Control of whether to stop on the effective line, that is, reel control can be executed.

  When it is necessary to pay out medals when the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are stopped, the main control board 92 outputs a drive signal (ON signal) to the hopper device 78 to control to drive the payout motor. On the other hand, a payout sensor 98 is built in the hopper device 78, and the payout sensor 98 detects a actually paid out medal and outputs a detection signal to the main control board 92. When the actual payout number reaches the specified payout number, the main control board 92 stops driving the payout motor.

  On the other hand, the slot machine 1 includes a medal full sensor 86, and when a certain amount of medals accumulates in the medal auxiliary storage 84, a detection signal is output from the medal full sensor 86. Upon receiving this detection signal, the main control board 92 determines that a failure has occurred, temporarily stops the progress of the game, and performs a process of displaying an error code on the payout number display section (error display section) 34 described above.

  On the other hand, on the back side of the front door 4, an error release sensor 100 is installed integrally with the lock device. The employee of the hall can perform the error canceling operation by twisting it in the counterclockwise direction with the dedicated key inserted into the key cylinder part 48, and when such an error canceling operation is performed, A detection signal is output from the error cancellation sensor 100. The main control board 92 can stop the display of the error code and continue the game if it is determined based on each detection signal that the failure such as the full of medals has been removed and the error canceling operation has been performed. To return to the correct state (error release). In this case, the medal full tank is given as an example of failure, but in addition to this, for various failures, inserted medal passage time error (medal retention), inserted medal passage check error (duplication detection, etc.), inserted medal retrograde There are errors (reverse in the medal insertion passage), hopper empty error (medal out of service), hopper jam error (medal jammed in the hopper), illegal hit error (reel control failure), and the like.

  A medal insertion passage is formed in the back of the front door 4 (inside the main body 2) behind the insertion slot 26, and an insertion sensor 104 and a lockout solenoid 102 are installed in the middle of the medal insertion passage. Has been. The insertion sensor 104 detects medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 26 and outputs a detection signal to the main control board 92. Based on the detection signal from the insertion sensor 104, the main control board 92 determines whether or not the inserted medal has normally passed through the medal insertion passage (determination of time and direction required for passing). One lockout solenoid 102 serves to open and close the medal insertion passage. The lockout solenoid 102 closes the medal insertion passage when it is in an inoperative state, but when activated, the lockout solenoid 102 opens the medal insertion passage so that the medal insertion can be accepted.

  On the other hand, when the lockout solenoid 102 is deactivated, the medal insertion path is closed and the insertion of medals is not accepted, and even if the player inserts medals, it is returned to the tray 54 as it is. As a result, neither bet / credit addition by medal insertion is performed.

(3-2. External terminal board)
An external terminal board 96 is connected to the main control board 92, and the slot machine 1 is connected to the hall computer 108 via the external terminal board 96. The external terminal board 96 relays various signals (game status indicating BB, RB, etc.) transmitted from the main control board 92 to the hall computer 108 in addition to the medal in / out signal (injection medal signal and payout medal signal). ing. “BB” is an abbreviation for a big bonus and “RB” is an abbreviation for a regular bonus. In the present embodiment, both are the same as known contents.

(3-3. Sub-control board [production control means])
On the sub-control board 94, a CPU 118, a ROM 120, a RAM 122, a VDP (Video Display Processor) 124, an audio amplifier 126, a sound source IC 128 (sound equipment), and the like are mounted. The sub control board 94 controls the display of images by the liquid crystal display device 58 and the operation of the speaker 56 based on the command signal transmitted from the main control board 92, and also the lamps (LEDs) 60, 62, 64. Controlling lighting or flashing.

  Further, the sub control board 94 receives a command signal (medal insertion sound command, bet operation sound command, payout sound command, etc.) transmitted from the main control board 92 and receives the liquid crystal display device 58, the speaker 56, the lamps 60, 62,. It is also possible to execute 64 controls.

  On the rear surface of the front door 4, a reel illumination light 142 for illuminating the surfaces of the left reel 10a, the middle reel 10b, and the right reel 10c is provided, and this reel illumination light 142 together with the reel backlight 144 described above. The lighting state is controlled by the sub-control board 94. The reel illumination light 142 is composed of white illumination such as a cold cathode tube, and is disposed on the back side of the upper edge of the display window 6 so as to illuminate the left reel 10a, the middle reel 10b, and the right reel 10c evenly.

(3-4. Power supply unit [Power supply means])
The power supply unit 70 takes in electric power from an external power supply (for example, AC 100 V) and generates electric power (for example, DC 24 V, 12 V, and 5 V) necessary for the operation of the slot machine 1. In the present embodiment, power is supplied from the power supply unit 70 to the main control board 92, and the main control board 92 is relayed to the reel drive motors 88a, 88b, 88c, the hopper device 78, the sub control board 94, and various effect elements. Necessary operating power is supplied.

  The power supply unit 70 also includes a setting key switch 72, a reset switch 74, a power switch 76, and the like. None of these switches are exposed to the outside of the main body 2 and can be operated only by opening the front door 4. Among these, the power switch 76 is for turning on / off the power supply to the slot machine 1, and the setting key switch 72 is for changing the setting of the slot machine 1 (setting values 1 to 6). Yes (setting change state switching means). The reset switch 74 is used to cancel an error that has occurred in the slot machine 1 and is operated together with the setting key switch 72 to change the setting. The setting change is for changing the payout rate of the slot machine 1 (ratio of the payout number to the input number) in stages, and usually the lowest payout rate at the setting 1 (setting value is 1). , Setting 6 (setting value is 6) is the highest payout rate. It should be noted that such a setting change is performed by a game hall manager (setting change means, change operation input means).

  A door opening sensor 132 is installed inside the main body 2, and when the front door 4 is opened, a detection signal is output from the door opening sensor 132. The main control board 92 can determine the open / closed state of the front door 4 based on the detection signal from the door open sensor 132. When the main control board 92 determines that the front door 4 is in the open state, a signal indicating that is sent to the external terminal. It can be transmitted from the board 96 to the hall computer 108.

(4. Game processing)
Next, the flow of game processing in the slot machine 1 will be described. The following game processing proceeds in accordance with a processing procedure on a control program executed by the CPU of the main control board 92.

(4-1. Revolute game processing)
FIG. 4 shows one processing procedure for one basic game (rotation game) in the slot machine 1. One game starts from start processing (step S10). This starting process is a process for starting the rotation of the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c. Here, a random number lottery is performed in response to the insertion of a medal or the operation of the bet buttons 12 and 16 or the operation of the start lever 18. Or other processing is performed. The details of the starting process (step S10) will be described later using another flowchart.

  In one game, a stop process (step S20) is executed following the start process (step S10). This stop process is to stop the rotation of each of the reels 10a, 10b, 10c and control the stop position. This process corresponds to a process generally called “reel control”. Generally, there are two types of reel control, a table method and a control method, but in this embodiment, the table method is used. This stop process will also be described later using another flowchart.

  When the rotation of the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c is stopped by the stop process, a determination process (step S30) is performed next. This determination process determines the combination mode (or stop mode, display mode, and appearance) of the symbols displayed when all reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are stopped. It is for providing game results.

(4-2. Examples of symbol combinations)
The combination of the prescribed symbols determined in the stop process includes, for example, a combination of three symbols of the same type (for example, “bell”, “watermelon”, “replay”, “7”, “BAR”, etc.) There are combinations of types of symbols (for example, “7-7-BAR”). In addition, as long as one type of symbol (for example, “cherry”) is present at the position of the left end (displayed on the left reel 10a), the type of the other two symbols (middle symbol / right symbol) is not limited. A single symbol combination (often written as “cherry-ANY-ANY” or the like) is also defined.

(4-3. Game results and benefits)
In addition, the benefits given to the player as a game result include, for example, payout of medals, transition to various bonus games, replay (replay), and the like. In general, a combination of symbols in which medals are paid out is referred to as a “small role”, and a symbol constituting the combination is referred to as a “small role symbol” or the like. Replay (replay) allows the next game to be played with the same multiplier as that game, and the corresponding combination is called “replay”, and the symbols constituting the combination are “replay symbols”. Or the like. Furthermore, a symbol constituting a combination that triggers a transition to a bonus game is referred to as a “bonus symbol” or the like. The specific contents of the determination process will also be described using another flowchart after the stop process.

(4-4. Start-up process)
FIG. 5 specifically shows the contents of the start process. Here, first, the insertion of medals or the operation of the bet buttons 18, 20, and 22 is awaited (step S101). As long as the player does not insert a medal or performs a betting operation (No), the start lever 18 is not activated, so the determination in Step S104 is denied (No) and the standby state (Step S101) continues to be looped. When a medal is inserted or a bet operation is received, a reception process (step S102) is performed, and the bet lamps 42a, 42b, and 42c are turned on according to the number of bets. In the acceptance process (step S102), a medal insertion command or a bet command is transmitted from the main control board 92 to the sub control board 94.

  The number of medals that can be multiplied in a normal game, that is, the number of bets, can be selected by the player within a range of 1 to 3, or only 3 (3 There is also a dedicated). In the game of the slot machine 1, the difference in the number of bets becomes the difference in the number of effective lines defined in the display window 6. Also, if the number of bets is different, the winning probability of the internal lottery is different except during the bonus game (JAC game). Normally, three symbols are effectively displayed in the vertical direction for each reel 10a, 10b, 10c in the display window 6, so that nine symbols are arranged in a matrix in the display window 6 as a whole. The line is a virtual line for defining a direction in which three symbols arranged in the display window 6 are viewed as one combination.

  For example, if the number of bets is 1, there is only one effective line, and the effective line in this case is defined in the horizontal direction at the middle position of the matrix. When the number of bets is increased to two, two horizontal effective lines are added to the upper and lower positions in addition to the middle position, and a total of three effective lines are defined. Then, when the number of bets reaches the maximum (= 3), two right-up and right-down effective lines, which are a combination of symbols in an oblique direction, are added, and five effective lines are defined in total. These effective lines are all linear, but there are cases where an effective line that is bent in the middle is defined in addition to these, and these are called “anomalous lines” or the like.

  In any case, the start lever valid process (step S103) is performed following the medal insertion or bet operation acceptance process (step S102), and the operation of the start lever 18 is substantially validated for the first time. When the player operates the start lever 18 (start operation) in this state, the determination in step S104 is affirmed (Yes), and then the start lever invalidation process (step S105) is performed.

  When the start lever 18 is operated, random numbers are extracted in response to the operation (step S106). The random number used here may be either a software random number or a hardware random number. Further, the timing for extracting the random number after receiving the operation of the start lever 18 is not particularly defined, and an appropriate extraction timing can be set in the programming process.

  In the next flag process (step S107), an internal lottery is performed using the extracted random number. The ROM 112 stores a lottery table in which the winning value of the internal lottery is determined, and the winning values of various small roles, replays, and various bonuses are determined in advance in the lottery table. Accordingly, the winning probabilities of various small roles, replays, and various bonuses are determined by the number of winning values among all random numbers (for example, 0 to 65535). Further, the winning probability (the number of winning values the lottery table has) varies depending on the setting of the slot machine 1, and generally, a lottery table is used in which the winning probability increases as the set value increases (winning probability defining means). Here, the term “internal” refers to the fact that a lottery is performed in the control process of the main control board 92, and the contents of the lottery (specific random number value, winning value, etc.) are felt by the player. It is something that has not been obtained. In any case, in the flag processing, winning / losing is determined from the extracted random number value, and a flag corresponding to the type of winning result (for example, big bonus, regular bonus, small role, replay, etc.) is turned ON, A winning flag command is transmitted from the main control board 92 to the sub control board 94. Note that when a lottery is lost, a flag indicating a loss (loss) is turned ON. Further, when the random number value extracted in step S106 corresponds to a special loss, a flag indicating the special loss may be turned on.

  When the above flag processing (step S107) is performed, it is determined whether or not the wait timer started in the previous start processing has timed up (for example, 4.1 seconds have elapsed) (step S108). When the time-up (Yes) is confirmed, each reel 10a, 10b, 10c is started, that is, rotation by the reel motor is started (step S109), and a wait timer from here to the next start is started (step S109). S110).

  When the above processing is performed, the start processing in FIG. 5 is returned, and then the reel stop processing is executed.

(4-3. Reel stop processing)
FIG. 6 shows the contents of reel stop processing by the table method as an example. Since a known technique can be basically applied to the reel control, the process flow will be briefly described here.

  As shown in FIG. 6, in the reel stop process, first, a reel control table is selected according to a flag indicating the winning result at that time (step S201). A reel control table is prepared for all winning results in advance, and these are stored in the ROM 112 of the main control board 92 as read-only table data.

  When the reel control table is selected, the next procedure is in a standby state until one of the three stop buttons 20, 22, 24 is pressed (steps S202, S210, S217). That is, in these standby states, it is determined whether the left, middle, and right reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are rotating (stop flag = 0?). It is determined whether any one of the stop buttons 20, 22, 24 has been pressed. If none of the stop buttons 20, 22, 24 has been pressed yet, the determinations at steps S 202, S 210, S 217 are all denied (No). Further, since all the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are not stopped at this stage, the determination in step S209 is negative (No), and step S202 and subsequent steps are repeated.

  When the player performs a stop operation, that is, when each stop button 20, 22, 24 is pressed, the following processing is performed. In the present embodiment, the stop buttons 20, 22, and 24 can be pressed in the order desired by the player.

  For example, if the left stop button 20 is first pressed in accordance with a so-called “forward push” or “forward scissor push” procedure (step S202 = Yes), the first reel stop flag is not set at this time ( Therefore, the first reel stop process (step S204) is executed for the left reel 10a. Here, the “first reel stop process” means a process for stopping the reel first.

  Alternatively, when the center stop button 22 is first pressed in accordance with a so-called “middle push” procedure (step S210 = Yes, step S211 = Yes), the first reel stop process (step S212) is executed for the middle reel 10b. The

  In addition to this, when the right stop button 24 is first pressed in accordance with a so-called “reverse push” or “reverse scissor push” procedure (step S217 = Yes, step S218 = Yes), the right reel 10c is A one reel stop process (step S219) is executed.

  As described above, when the first reel stop process (steps S204, S212, and S219) is performed for any one of the left, middle, and right reels 10a, 10b, and 10c, the reel control tables for the remaining two reels are determined. (Steps S206, S214, S221). For example, if the winning type at that time is “BELL”, the reel control table for stopping the symbols of “BELL” on the predetermined effective lines for the remaining two reels (10a, 10b, 10c), respectively. Is determined. Based on the reel control table determined here, the stop positions of the remaining two reels (10a, 10b, 10c) are controlled (steps S205, S213, S220). As a result, the symbol “bell” is stopped on the predetermined effective line.

  For example, taking a pattern in which the left reel 10a is stopped first along the forward pressing procedure, the first reel stop process is performed on the left reel 10a in step S204. At this time, the main control board 92 transmits a stop information command (first stop information command) indicating the stop eye of the left reel 10a to the sub control board 94.

  In the next step S206, reel control tables (stop tables) are determined for the remaining middle and right reels 10b and 10c. Specifically, when the winning flag represents “bell” and the left reel 10a is in the first stop, first, the process of stopping the symbol “bell” at the upper position is performed. When the left reel 10a is stopped for the first time, the effective line is determined to be a right-down line. The remaining middle reel 10b is set at the interruption position, and the left reel 10c is set at the lower position. A reel control table for stopping is determined (step S206).

  When the above processing (step S206) is performed, the first reel stop flag is turned ON (= 1) (step S207), and the left reel stop flag is turned ON (= 1) (step S208). ). Since all the reels are not stopped at this stage, the determination in step S209 is negative (No), and the process returns to step S202.

  Then, since the left reel 10a has already stopped at this time (step S202 = No), when the stop button 22 at the center position is pressed second (step S210 = Yes) according to the forward pressing procedure, the first reel stops. After the flag determination (step S211 = No), the middle reel stop process (step S213) is executed. In the middle reel stop process, the stop position is controlled based on the reel control table (stop table) previously determined for the middle reel 10b. As a result, in the example of the lower right effective line, the symbol “bell” on the middle reel 10b stops at the middle position.

  In addition, the stop eye at this time (display mode at the time of stop) is a state in which two symbols “bells” are aligned on the left and middle reels 10a and 10b on the right lowering line (so-called “right lowering temper”). At this time, the main control board 92 transmits a stop information command (second stop information command) indicating the stop eye of the middle reel 10b to the sub control board 94. In this case, since the middle reel 10b is in the second stop, steps S212, S214, and S215 are all bypassed, and the middle reel stop flag is only turned ON (= 1) in step S216.

  Similarly, when the right stop button 24 is finally pressed (step S217 = Yes), the stop position is controlled based on the reel control table (stop table) already determined for the right reel 10c (step S220). ). As a result, the symbol “bell” on the third right reel 10c stops at the lower position, so that the appearance (display mode) when all reels are stopped is a combination of three symbols “bell” on the lower right line. Is displayed.

  At this time, the main control board 92 transmits a stop information command (third stop information command) indicating the stop eye of the right reel 10c to the sub control board 94. In this case, since the right reel 10c is in the third stop, steps S219, S221, and S222 are all bypassed, and the right reel stop flag is turned ON (= 1) in step S223.

  When the all-reel stop flag is turned on through the processing so far, the determination in step S209 is affirmed (Yes), and the processing by the main control board 92 exits this routine.

  Although not particularly illustrated, in this embodiment, a certain number (for example, 4 to 6) of symbols “bells” are arranged in all the symbols (for example, 21) on each reel 10a, 10b, 10c. Furthermore, only about four other types of symbols are arranged between the symbols of “bell” in each symbol row. Therefore, in the first reel stop process (steps S204, S212, and S219) for the left, middle, and right, even if the timing at which the player presses the stop buttons 20, 22, and 24 is not so severe, the reel control is performed. The “bell” symbol can be reliably stopped on the active line. Also, in each reel stop process after the second stop (steps S205, S213, and S220), even if the pressing timing of the stop buttons 20, 22, and 24 is not so severe, it is on the effective line determined by the first reel stop. It is possible to reliably stop the “bell” symbol.

  As a result, when the small role “Bell” is won by an internal lottery, a combination of “Bell” symbols is displayed simply by the player pressing the stop buttons 20, 22, 24. And there is an advantage that the player can surely win a medal. In the present embodiment, the same applies to “replay”.

  The above is the flow of the reel stop process using the reel control table. As described above, in this embodiment, one effective line is preliminarily determined depending on whether the first stop reel corresponds to the left, middle, or right. For the remaining reel stop processing of the second and third stops, a reel control table prepared for stopping the symbol corresponding to the winning flag on this effective line is used.

(4-4. Composition of roles)
In the present embodiment, the symbol “watermelon” is attached in addition to the symbol “bell” in the symbol row of each reel 10a, 10b, 10c. With respect to these “bells” and “watermelons”, when all the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are stopped, three symbols of the same type are stopped on the active line, thereby giving out a prescribed number of medals. In this embodiment, for example, there are 8 “Bell” payouts and 12 “Watermelon” payouts, such as “Bell” and “Watermelon”. What can receive is "general small role design".

  On the other hand, with regard to “cherry”, it is not necessary that all the symbols “cherry” are stopped on the active line when all the reels 10a, 10b, 10c are stopped, and “cherry” is only applied to the left reel 10a. If the symbol is stopped on the active line, a prescribed number of medals are paid out regardless of the stopping mode of the other middle reel 10b and right reel 10c. In this embodiment, the payout of “cherry” is, for example, 7 sheets, but when the symbol of “cherry” stops at the upper position in the state of 3 sheets, it is stopped at both the upper line and the lower right line. In addition, when the “cherry” symbol stops at the lower position, it stops at both the lower line and the right-up line (so-called “double winning”). Therefore, the “cherry” symbol can be paid out twice as many as the specified number (14 in this case). In the present embodiment, a symbol that can be paid out with only one symbol, such as “cherry”, is a “specific small role symbol”.

  In this embodiment, the symbol “7” or “BAR” corresponds to the “bonus symbol”. These “7” or “BAR” are “Big Bonus Game” and “Regular Bonus Game” when all three reels 10a, 10b and 10c are stopped when all three symbols of the same type are stopped on the active line. The player is given the benefit of shifting to a special gaming state called, but medals are not paid out because the symbols are ready. Like these “7” and “BAR”, a symbol corresponding to a special winning type is one in which three types of symbols of the same type are arranged to shift to various bonus games.

  The above “replay” is a symbol corresponding to replay, and when all three reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are stopped when all three “replay” symbols are stopped on the active line, the next game again. Replays can be performed under the same multiplier conditions without medals. In the present embodiment, the “replay” symbol is a “replay symbol”. In the present embodiment, the “replay” symbol is also used as the “JAC symbol” in the “big bonus game”.

(4-5. Determination process)
The above is the content of the reel stop process. When all the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are stopped by the reel stop process, the following determination process is performed.

  FIG. 7 specifically shows the contents of the determination process. When all the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are stopped by the reel stop process (FIG. 6), the main control board 92 displays the output (stop mode, display mode) displayed at that time on the sub control board 94. Transmit (step S301).

  Next, from the outcome when all reels are stopped, whether or not the big bonus symbol “7” is stopped on the active line at that time (step S302), the regular bonus symbol “BAR” is aligned. (Step S303), whether or not the small role symbols ("bell", "watermelon", "cherry") have been stopped together (step S304), and whether the "replay" symbol has stopped. (Step S305) is determined. In the case of “cherry”, it is only necessary to determine the left reel 10a.

  At this time, if it is determined that the small role symbols (“bell”, “watermelon”, “cherry”) have stopped on the active line (step S304 = Yes), the main control board 92 drives the hopper device 78 to A medal payout operation corresponding to the number of small roles is instructed, and a payout sound command is transmitted to the sub-control board 94 (step S308).

  In addition, the sub control board 94 has the symbols aligned by blinking the reel backlight 144 at positions corresponding to the symbols on the effective line or blinking the lamps 60, 62, 64 of the front door 4 ( (Also called “winning”). In addition, the sub-control board 94 performs an effect of outputting sound effects from the speaker 56.

  If it is determined that “7” as a big bonus symbol or “BAR” as a regular bonus symbol is all stopped on the active line (step S302 or S303 = Yes), the main control board 92 is a sub-control board. A sound effect command is transmitted to 94 (steps S306 and S307), and a big bonus game process (step S309) or a regular bonus / JAC game process (step S310) is executed. As described above, when it is determined that the bonus symbol “7” or “BAR” is stopped in a game that is being played normally, the game is terminated without paying out medals (giving game value). (Game end means). In addition, when the big bonus game process (step S309) or the regular bonus / JAC game game process (step S310) is executed, when the game is finished, the game is shifted to a special game state before the next bet is placed (so-called an actor operation) ) (Special gaming state transition means).

  Alternatively, when it is determined that the symbols “Replay” are stopped on the active line (step S305 = Yes), the replay process (step S311) is executed. The contents of the replay process are the same as known ones.

  When the above processing is completed, the winning combination of the small role or replay is turned off (step S312), and this determination processing is returned. Here, the flag in the case of a loss is also turned off. In addition, even if the winning flag for the small role is ON, if the symbol is not stopped on the active line due to missing or the like (steps S304, S305 = No), the winning flag is similarly turned OFF and the determination processing is performed. Returned. It should be noted that the winning flag for the big bonus or the regular bonus is not turned OFF in this determination process even if the player cannot arrange the corresponding bonus symbols (steps S302 to S305 = No) and is carried over to the next game. It is. When the process proceeds to the big bonus game process (step S309) or the regular bonus / JAC game game process (step S310), the winning flags for various bonuses are turned OFF during these processes.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the “cherry”, “bell”, “watermelon”, and “replay” flags are discarded as long as the game is concerned, and are not carried over to the next game (the same applies to the defeat flag). . On the other hand, the bonus flag “7” or “BAR” is not discarded as long as the game is concerned, and can be carried over to the next time.

(5. Special gaming state)
The above is the explanation during the normal game, but in the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, the big bonus or the regular bonus is won by the internal lottery in the game during the normal game, and the corresponding “7” or “BAR” symbol is displayed. When all of them stop on the active line, the game moves to a special game state called “Big Bonus Game” or “Regular Bonus Game”. In the present embodiment, an opportunity to play a maximum of 30 regular games in one big bonus game and an opportunity to play a maximum of 3 JAC games (regular bonus games) are included. Through these game opportunities, the player may receive a medal payout at a relatively high frequency, and thus it can be said that the player is more advantageous than usual.

(5-1. Big bonus game processing)
FIG. 8 specifically shows the contents of the big bonus (BB) game process. Here, first, initialization processing is performed (step S401), but the random value lottery winning value table is not changed particularly for the base game (small role game). Therefore, in the normal game with a big bonus, a winning value table that defines the same winning probability as that in the normal gaming state is used (small role probability fixing means).

  Next, the big bonus winning flag is turned off (step S402), and then the start processing (step S403) and stop processing (step S404) of all the reels 10a, 10b, 10c are executed. The contents of the start process and the stop process are the same as those already described.

  When all the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are stopped by the stop process, the symbol combination mode at that time, that is, the outcome (stop mode) is transmitted to the sub-control board 94 (step S405), and then to the RAM 114 of the main control board 92. Only one reserved small game counter is counted up (step S406).

  Next, the outcome when all reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are stopped is determined, and whether or not the JAC symbol (also used as “replay”) has stopped on the active line (step S407), or the small role symbol is valid It is determined whether or not the operation has stopped on the line (step S412).

  As a result of the determination, if it is not determined that either the JAC symbol or the small role symbol is stopped on the active line (No), the process proceeds to step S415, and the winning flag is turned OFF. In this case, it is considered that either the internal lottery was lost or the player could not arrange the small role symbols even if the small role winning flag was ON.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S407 that the small role symbol has stopped on the active line (Yes), the main control board 92 sends a drive signal instructing the payout of the number of medals corresponding to the small role to the hopper device. 78, and a payout sound command is transmitted to the sub-control board 94 (step S413). Further, when the main control board 92 instructs the payout, the payout counter is counted up by that number (step S414).

  Alternatively, when it is determined that the JAC symbol has stopped on the active line during the big bonus game (step S407 = Yes), the main control board 92 transmits a sound effect command to the sub-control board 94 (step S408). The RB / JAC game process (step S410) is performed at the same time, but no medals are paid out due to the JAC symbols being prepared. In the RB / JAC game game process, a game opportunity called a “JAC game” or a “regular bonus game” is given to the player. Further, when the JAC game processing is finished once, the JAC game counter is counted up there (step S411). The contents of the RB / JAC game are the same as the known “regular bonus game”.

  Similarly, when it is determined that the JAC symbol or the small role symbol has stopped on the active line, step S415 is executed subsequent to step S411 or step S414, respectively, and the winning flag is turned OFF there. Then, after each game end, it is determined whether or not the big bonus game itself should be ended (step S416), and while the end condition is not satisfied (No), the process returns to step S403 and the next start processing is performed. Done.

In general, a big bonus game ends when any of the following conditions is satisfied.
(1) The count of the small role game counter has reached 30 in step S406.
(2) The count number of the JAC game counter has reached 3 in step S411.
(3) The number of medals paid out has reached a predetermined number (for example, 450) determined in advance.

  If any of the above conditions is satisfied, the end determination in step S416 is affirmed (Yes), and then the big bonus game end processing is performed and the winning value table is restored (step S417).

(5-2. RB / JAC game processing)
FIG. 9 specifically shows the contents of the RB / JAC game processing. Here, first, initialization processing is performed, and the random value lottery value table is changed for the JAC game (step S501). In addition, the multiplier of medals is fixed to one. The winning value table changed here has more winning values for “JAC” as the winning type (special winning type) than usual, and the probability of winning the type “JAC” is higher. Yes (special winning probability change means).

  Next, start processing (step S502) and stop processing (step S503) of all reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are executed. When all the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are stopped by the stop process, the symbol combination mode at that time, that is, the outcome (stop mode) is transmitted from the main control board 92 to the sub-control board 94 (step S504), and the JAC game counter Is counted up by one (step S505).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the JAC symbols have stopped on the effective line (in this case, the single line is limited to the middle line) when all the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are stopped (step S506). As described above, the JAC symbol here is also used as “replay”, and the combination is often “replay-replay-replay”, but a combination of another symbol and “replay” symbol (for example, "7-replay-replay", "cherry-replay-replay", etc.) may be provided.

  If all the reels 10a, 10b, 10c are stopped and the JAC symbol is not stopped on the middle effective line (step S506 = No), the process proceeds to step S510 and the winning flag is turned OFF. In this case, it is considered that either the flag was not turned on simply because it was lost in the lottery, or the player missed the prize without being able to arrange the symbols even if the flag was turned on. However, in the case of winning, since the symbols are almost certainly aligned by the reel control, there is almost no loss here.

  Conversely, if it is determined that the JAC symbol has stopped on the active line (Yes), the main control board 92 drives the hopper device 78 to execute a specified number (for example, 15) of medals, and a payout sound. The command is transmitted to the sub control board 94 (step S508). When a payout is made, the payout counter is counted up by that number (step S509), and subsequently, the winning flag is turned off (step S510).

  Also in the RB / JAC game game process, one JAC game end determination (step S511) is performed. While the number of games paid out during the JAC game (winning number) has not yet reached a certain number (for example, 8 times), the end determination is denied (No), the process returns to step S502, and the JAC game is continued. The Thereafter, when the number of payouts (winning times) during the JAC game reaches a certain number (for example, 8 times), it is determined that one JAC game should be ended (Yes). In this case, the process proceeds to step S512 to finish the RB / JAC game, the winning value table is returned to the state before change (for the normal / small role game), and the big bonus game process (FIG. 8) is restored. .

(6. Production process)
The above is an example of game control by the main control board 92, but in the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, the presentation operation is controlled by the sub control board 94 as the game progresses.

  FIG. 10 shows an example of effect processing executed by the sub control board 94. When the power of the slot machine 1 is turned on (the power switch 76 is turned on), an initialization process is first performed in this effect process (step S801). Next, a medal insertion command transmitted from the main control board 92 is awaited, and when the medal insertion command is actually transmitted, an effect of outputting an insertion sound, a bet sound, etc. is performed accordingly (step S802).

  Subsequently, a winning (start) flag command transmitted from the main control board 92 is awaited (step S803). The winning (starting) flag command is transmitted from the main control board 92 in response to the operation of the starting lever 18, and when the winning (starting) flag command is received, the sub control board 94 controls the effect operation in accordance therewith. . The effect operation here is, for example, an output of a reel start sound or an image display effect by the liquid crystal display device 58.

  When the start effect is performed, the first to third stop information commands are then awaited (steps S804 to S806). When the three stop buttons 20, 22, 24 are operated in an appropriate order, the first to third stop information commands are sequentially transmitted from the main control board 92 to the sub control board 94, and in response to this, the sub control board 94 receives the first stop information command. The effect operations are controlled according to the winning flag and the first to third stop information commands, respectively. The effect operation here includes, for example, output of each reel stop sound, reel light extinction effect, image display effect by the liquid crystal display device 58, and the like. In particular, when the third stop information command is received, an effect operation corresponding to the winning type at that time is performed (step S806).

  Then, since a payout command is transmitted from the main control board 92 according to the result of the determination process, the sub control board 94 receives this and produces an effect by the payout sound output (step S807). Further, here, a game status command transmitted from the main control board 92 is awaited, and the current game status is examined from the received command. The game status represents, for example, “Big Bonus Game”, “RB / JAC Game”, “Bonus Game End”, or the like.

(7. Processing related to set values)
Next, processing related to the set value of the slot machine 1 will be described. As described above, the set value has the property of adjusting the machine split / departure rate in the slot machine 1, but in the present embodiment, the CPU 110 of the main control board 92 performs the following processing for determining and changing the set value. Is executed.

(7-1. Processing at power-on)
11 and 12 show processing executed when the slot machine 1 is turned on (when the power switch 76 is turned on). In the power-on process, first, a switch signal and a power failure signal are input by referring to the input ports of CPU 110 (input port 101b and other input ports in FIG. 3) (step S1001). The switch signal input here includes an ON / OFF signal of a stop mode switching switch and an automatic settlement mode switching switch provided in the slot machine 1. These change-over switches are installed on, for example, the power supply unit 70 (or the back side of the front door 4), and the game machine operator switches each switch to ON or OFF in advance, thereby stopping the slot machine 1. It is possible to select whether to enter the mode or whether to enter the automatic checkout mode. If the slot machine 1 is in the stop mode (stop mode switching switch is ON), the main control board 92 puts the slot machine 1 in the game end state when one big bonus game ends, and the subsequent games Executes control to stop execution. If the slot machine 1 is in the automatic settlement mode (the automatic settlement switch is ON), the main control board 92 settles the credit every time one big bonus game is finished, and medals for the number of stored credits. Execute the control to pay out.

  Since the power failure signal is input from the power supply monitoring IC 116 to the input port 101b of the CPU 110 as described above, the level of the corresponding input port 101b is referred to in step S1001. Subsequently, the CPU 110 determines whether or not a power failure signal is input (step S1002). If a power failure signal is input (= 1) at this time, the determination in step S1002 is affirmed (YES) and step S1001 is looped. Normally, a power failure signal is hardly input when the power is turned on, so the CPU 110 next executes step S1004.

[Storage content judgment means / setting range judgment means]
In step S1004, the CPU 110 initializes internal registers. Subsequently, the CPU 110 determines whether or not the check data (pre-fixed value) in the RAM 114 is normal (step S1006). This is because the check data of the fixed value is checked separately from the sum data, so that the sum data may coincide even if the contents of the RAM 114 are destroyed. is there. If the check data is normal (YES), the CPU 110 next determines whether the sum data is normal (step S1008). At this time, the CPU 110 sets the calculation start address of the backup area of the RAM 114, which is the checksum calculation target, to the pointer, and also sets the number of checksum calculations. Then, the CPU 110 sequentially adds the value of the backup area sequentially designated by the pointer to the value of the checksum data area (exclusive OR), and sequentially updates the calculation result to the checksum data area. Calculate the checksum.

(7-1-1. Normal)
Normally, the checksum data calculated in the previous power failure process (when the power is turned off) is stored as it is in the backup area of the RAM 114, and thus is stored in the backup area and the checksum data calculated this time. The checksum data should match each other (normal). As described above, when the CPU 110 determines that the checksum data is normal in step S1008 (YES), the CPU 110 stores the input data of the switch signal in the RAM 114 (step S1010), and then sets the key switch for setting (setting key). It is determined whether or not the switch 72) is ON (step S1012).

  When an operation of changing the setting of the slot machine 1 is performed by the person in charge at the game hall, the power switch 76 is turned on with the dedicated key inserted into the setting key switch 72 and twisted clockwise. Therefore, if the determination in step S1012 is affirmative (YES), the process proceeds to step S1034 in FIG. 12 to perform setting change processing (connection symbol 2 → 2).

  On the other hand, when the setting change operation is not particularly performed, since the setting key switch 72 is normally in an OFF state (step S1012 = NO), the CPU 110 sequentially performs the remaining steps S1014 to S1026 of the power-on process. Execute. That is, the CPU 110 clears an unused area in the stack area of the RAM 114 (step S1014), and then restores the output port when the power is turned off (step S1016). As a result, the output port that was in the output state when the power was turned off returns to the original output state. Note that the output port to be restored is backed up in the RAM 114 at the previous power-off.

  Subsequently, the CPU 110 clears the check data and the sum data in the RAM 114 (steps S1018 and S1020). When the CPU 110 sets the input port data at the previous power-off (step S1022), the CPU 110 sets the stack pointer at the previous power-off (step S1024), and saves it in the backup area at the previous power-off. The contents of the register are restored based on the stored data (step S1026). Through the above procedure, the CPU 110 returns to the power-on process when the state at the previous power-off is recovered.

  As described above, when the check data and the sum data stored in the backup area of the RAM 114 are normal when the power is turned on (steps S1006 and S1008 = YES), and the setting change operation is not performed (step S1012 = NO). ), The CPU 110 can continue to control the progress of the game from the previous power-off state.

(7-1-2. Abnormality / failure)
On the other hand, if the check data or the sum data stored in the backup area of the RAM 114 is not normal when the power is turned on (step S1006 or S1008 = NO), the CPU 110 proceeds to step S1028 in FIG. The input data (power failure signal) is stored in the RAM 114 (connection symbol 1 → 1). Then, the CPU 110 displays an error code indicating that the set value is indeterminate in the error display unit (also used as the payout number display unit 34) (step S1030). The error code may be a combination of characters, symbols, and numbers that can be displayed by the 7-segment LED (for example, “S0” or the like is a visual indication that the set value is not yet determined). At this time, by transmitting an error information command from the main control board 92 to the sub control board 94, the sub control board 94 causes the error information (“setting value is unconfirmed. "Please cancel the error".

  If the data stored in the RAM 114 is not normal as described above, it means that the data in the backup area has a defect such as destruction or loss. In this case, since the setting value data stored in the backup area is not correct (setting values 1 to 6 at the previous power-off), the game cannot be normally executed in the slot machine 1 as it is. .

  When the CPU 110 determines that the data stored in the RAM 114 is not normal, the CPU 110 displays an error indicating that the setting is not yet confirmed (setting failure disclosure unit) and waits for the operation of the setting key switch 72 as it is. (Step S1032 = NO).

  Thereafter, when the setting key switch 72 is switched to the ON position by the game hall manager (step S1032 = YES), the CPU 110 proceeds to step S1034 and executes the setting change process. When the setting value is set to any one of 1 to 6 in this setting change processing, the setting value data stored in the RAM 114 (storage means, setting storage means) is in an unconfirmed state (data The data is rewritten to normal data corresponding to any one of the setting values 1 to 6 from the destroyed state.

  After completing the setting change process (step S1034), the CPU 110 clears the memory other than the setting value data and the changeover switch data stored in the RAM 114 (step S1036). Subsequently, the CPU 110 clears the stack area of the RAM 114 (step S1038) and initializes the external output (step S1040).

  After the above procedure, the CPU 110 moves to the main loop (steps S1042 to S1060). The CPU 110 executes the main loop from step S1042 to step S1060 for each game, regardless of whether the game is in the normal game state or the special game state. That is, the CPU 110 clears the use area of the RAM 114 for each game (one game) (step S1042), and then performs a spinning game process (step S1044). The spinning game process is the same as that shown in FIG.

  CPU110 will perform a game flag determination, after completing a spinning game process (step S1044) (step S1058, S1060). As a result of the game flag determination, if the big bonus game end flag is not ON (step S1060 = NO), the CPU 110 returns to step S1042 and executes the main loop in the next game.

  The above is a flow in the normal gaming state, but once a transition is made to a big bonus game, the end flag is turned ON in the end processing of the big bonus game (step S417 in FIG. 8) (step S1060 = YES). In this case, the CPU 110 executes stop and checkout processing (step S1062), and clears the use area of the RAM 114 every time the big bonus game ends (step S1064).

  As described above, when a problem is found in the check data or the sum data of the RAM 114 in the power-on process, the CPU 110 displays a setting unconfirmed error and shifts to the standby state of the setting key switch 72 (change operation request means In addition, the game can be disabled (game progress stopping means). Further, the CPU 110 continues to loop the standby state of the setting key switch 72, and once the execution of the game is disabled, the setting value is normally set (changed) through the setting change process (step S1034). It is possible to permit the progress of the game to be resumed only (game progress permission means). As a result, the CPU 110 can exclude a setting value from being changed or newly set without being based on a setting change operation (change exclusion unit).

  As described above, according to the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, the setting value set at the responsibility of the game hall operator is forcibly changed by initialization of the RAM 114, or is changed from an unconfirmed state to an arbitrary setting value. It is never set. In addition, if a failure occurs in the contents of the RAM 114 and a setting indeterminate error occurs, the error must be canceled by a setting change operation. Therefore, the setting value that accurately reflects the intention of the game hall operator is restored. To resume the game. When the error is canceled by the setting change operation, the CPU 110 clears the display of the setting unconfirmed error.

(7-2. Error display during start-up process)
As described above, in the power-on process, the CPU 110 can easily detect the destruction or loss of the set value data by executing a parity check. The mode of performing the display is extremely reasonable. In addition to this, in the present embodiment, it is possible to determine whether or not there is a setting unconfirmed error in the starting process (FIG. 5) during the game.

  In this case, as described above, the CPU 110 checks the check data and the sum data of the RAM 114 in the power-on process as described above. Even if the set value data is in an unconfirmed state at this time, in particular, an error display or the setting key switch 72 Without waiting for the ON operation, the normal main loop is entered. Then, the CPU 110 can determine whether the set value falls within a prescribed range in the internal lottery for each game.

  Specifically, during the starting process of FIG. 5, when the CPU 110 extracts a random number triggered by the operation of the starting lever 18 (step S106 in FIG. 5), a flag process (in FIG. 5) is performed based on the extracted random number. When referring to the hit value table in step S107), it is determined whether the set value data falls within a prescribed range. In other words, the winning value table used in the internal lottery is stored in the ROM 112 for each of the six set values. In the flag processing (step S107 in FIG. 5), the CPU 110 refers to the winning value table. Since it is necessary to refer to the set value data, it is inevitably determined whether the set value data in the RAM 114 falls within a prescribed range, that is, one of 1 to 6.

  At this time, if the CPU 110 detects that the set value data is not within the range of 1 to 6 due to destruction or loss of the stored contents of the RAM 114, that is, is in an indeterminate state, the CPU 110 proceeds to step S1030 in FIG. Display the setting indeterminate error. Thereafter, the setting key switch 72 is in a standby state as already described, and therefore the error state can be canceled only by the following setting change processing.

(7-3. Setting change process)
FIG. 13 specifically shows the setting change process. In the setting change process, first, the CPU 110 sets its own INT terminal to allow interruption (step S3001), and then executes a set value confirmation process (step S3002). In the set value confirmation processing, the CPU 110 refers to the set value data stored in the RAM 114 as the current set value. Next, the CPU 110 sets a setting value change start command (step S3004). As a result, the CPU 110 enters a setting change mode.

  Next, the CPU 110 determines whether the set value data falls within a specified range, that is, whether the set value data falls within a range of 1 to 6 (step S3005). If the set value data stored in the RAM 114 is normal, the set value data always corresponds to one of 1 to 6, but if there is a problem with the data in the RAM 114 as described above, the set value data Data is in an indeterminate state due to destruction or loss. Therefore, in this case, the determination in step S3005 is negative (NO), so the CPU 110 bypasses step S3006 and proceeds to the next step S3008. Here, for convenience, the set value data is described as 1 to 6, but the set value data may be expressed in six stages of 0 to 5.

  Although not shown in FIG. 13, during the execution of the setting change process, the CPU 110 displays the set value that is currently set or a set value that is a candidate after the change as a set value display unit (credit number display unit 30). And a numerical value display process (set value display means). However, if the setting value data is in an unconfirmed state due to a malfunction of the RAM 114 (step S3005 = NO), the CPU 110 does not display the numerical values 1 to 6 on the setting value display unit, but instead the setting value is unconfirmed. (For example, a symbol / code display such as “-”, “00”, etc. with 7-segment LED) is displayed (out-of-range display means). Thereby, the person in charge at the game hall can visually confirm the current value or the set value after the change, and can visually recognize the set value if it is in an unconfirmed state.

  In step S3008, the CPU 110 determines whether the setting switch (also used as the reset switch 74) is turned on. When the setting switch ON signal is input to CPU 110 (step S3008 = YES), CPU 110 adds 1 to the current set value data (step S3010). As a result, the current setting value is changed to a setting value one step higher. At this time, if the set value is unconfirmed, 1 is set as the set value (set value candidate switching means).

  Further, when 1 is added to the set value data, the CPU 110 determines whether or not the set value data is 7 or more (step S3012). In this embodiment, since the range of the preset setting value is 1 to 6, when the setting value data is 7 or more (step S3012 = YES), the CPU 110 sets the setting value to 1 (step S3014). ). On the other hand, if the set value data is not 7 or more (step S3012 = NO), only 1 is added to the current set value data. As a result, the set value data increases from 1 to 6 in order and returns to 1 after 6 (1 → 2 → 3 → 4 → 5 → 6 → 1). During this time, the set value data is numerically displayed on the set value display section as a set value that becomes a candidate after the change.

  In any case, when the set value data is changed by the ON signal of the setting switch, the CPU 110 sets a set value command with the changed set value data (step S3016), and then returns to step S3005 to set the set value data. Is determined to be within the prescribed range. If the setting switch ON signal has been input even once, the setting value data is set within the specified range even if the setting value data is in an indeterminate state due to a malfunction of the RAM 114 (step S3010). In this case, the CPU 110 proceeds to step S3006 to determine whether or not the rotating cylinder rotation starting device has been turned on (whether or not the starting lever 18 has been operated).

  When CPU 110 detects that the rotating drum rotation starting device has been turned on (step S3006 = YES), it next sets a set value change end command (step S3018). As a result, the set value set as the candidate after change is confirmed as the actually set value (change confirmation means). Thereafter, the CPU 110 stands by until the setting key switch 72 is turned off (step S3020). When the setting key switch 72 is actually switched off (step S3020 = YES), the setting change process is returned. .

  As described above, when the set value data is in an indeterminate state due to a malfunction of the RAM 114 (step S3005 = NO), the CPU 110 bypasses the determination in step S3006 to start with the set value data being indeterminate. Even if the lever 18 is turned on, the CPU 110 does not accept the operation and can invalidate it (change confirmation operation invalidating means). As a result, in the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, it is effectively prevented that the set value is confirmed in the unconfirmed state, so that an unconfirmed error of the set value does not repeatedly occur thereafter. .

(8. Interrupt processing at power failure)
Next, FIG. 14 specifically shows the contents of interrupt processing at the time of a power failure (when the power is cut off). The interruption process at the time of power failure is executed preferentially by the input of the power failure signal as described above, but the signal path to the INT terminal 110a even though the original power failure signal is not in the input state. 14 may be executed due to the influence of noise. Therefore, in this embodiment, the CPU 110 determines the input state of the power failure signal to the input port 101b different from the INT terminal 110a at the initial stage of the interruption processing at the time of power failure, and confirms that the power failure signal is actually input. Yes.

  That is, when executing the interruption process at the time of power failure, the CPU 110 first determines whether or not a power failure signal is input from the power supply monitoring IC 116 by referring to the input port 101b (step S2001). As a result, if it is determined that a power failure signal has not been input (power failure signal = 0) (YES), then interrupt permission processing is terminated after setting the interrupt permission (step S2002). By performing such processing, it is effectively prevented that the interruption processing at the time of power failure is executed carelessly due to the influence of noise.

  On the other hand, when a power failure signal is actually input by turning off the power switch 76 or the like (step S2001 = NO), the CPU 110 saves the contents of various registers in the register save area of the RAM 114 (step S2004). Is saved (step S2006). In the power-on process, the register contents are restored based on the saved contents.

  Next, the CPU 110 performs output port clear processing, thereby turning off each output port (step S2008). As a result, the progress of the game does not change after the interruption of the power failure signal.

  The CPU 110 sets check data in the RAM 114 (step S2010), and creates sum data from the contents of the RAM 114 (step S2012). That is, the CPU 110 sets the calculation start address of the backup area of the RAM 114, which is the checksum calculation target, to the pointer, and also sets the checksum calculation count. Then, the CPU 110 sequentially adds the value of the backup area sequentially designated by the pointer to the value of the checksum data area (exclusive OR), and sequentially updates the calculation result to the checksum data area. Calculate the checksum. The sum data created in this way is used for the sum check in the above power-on process.

  Thereafter, the CPU 110 sets an access prohibition value in the access register of the RAM 114 and prepares for power shutdown while executing an infinite loop in a state where access to the RAM 114 is prohibited (step S2014).

(9. Other forms)
In one embodiment, the power monitoring IC 116 is mounted on the main control board 92, but the power monitoring IC 116 may be built in the power supply unit 70. In this case, the same effect as that of the embodiment can be obtained by outputting a power failure signal to the main control board 92 when the power monitoring IC built in the power supply unit 70 predicts a power failure from a decrease in the output voltage.

  In addition, the configuration of the slot machine described in the embodiment is a preferable example, and it goes without saying that various modifications and additions are possible.

It is a front view of a slot machine. It is a front view showing a main body of the slot machine. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of a slot machine. It is a flowchart of a spinning game process. It is a flowchart of a starting process. It is a flowchart of a reel stop process. It is a flowchart of a determination process. It is a flowchart of a big bonus game process. It is a flowchart of RB / JAC game game processing. It is a flowchart of effect processing. It is a flowchart (1/2) of the process at the time of power-on. It is a flowchart (2/2) of the process at the time of power activation. It is a flowchart of a setting change process. It is a flowchart of a power failure interruption process.

Explanation of symbols

1 slot machine 4 front door 6 display windows 10a, 10b, 10c reel 12 1 bet button 16 MAX bet button 18 start lever 20 right stop button 22 middle stop button 24 right stop button 92 main control board 94 sub control board

Claims (1)

When a start operation by a player is received with a predetermined number of game values applied to each game, a plurality of movable display bodies having a symbol row formed on the surface are rotated in one direction to change the symbol display. Thereafter, when a plurality of stop operations by the player are sequentially received, the rotation of the movable display bodies is stopped one by one in the order in which the stop operations are received, and the rotation of all the movable display bodies is stopped. In a gaming machine that determines the result of a game based on the display mode of a symbol,
Internal lottery means for performing a predetermined internal lottery for each game and judging the result of winning;
As a winning result of the internal lottery, a small combination defining means for defining a small combination accompanied with a game value,
As a winning result of the internal lottery, a special winning type defining means for prescribing a special winning type different from the small role,
If a symbol corresponding to the small role is displayed in a prescribed manner when all of the movable display bodies are stopped in a game played in a general normal gaming state, the number of game values corresponding to the small role is displayed to the player. A game value giving means to be given to
Even if all of the movable display bodies are stopped in the game played in the normal gaming state and the symbols corresponding to the special winning types are displayed in a prescribed manner, the game of this time is not given a game value. Game ending means for ending the game,
In the game played in the normal game state, when all the movable display bodies are stopped, the symbols corresponding to the special winning types are displayed in a prescribed manner, and the game of this time is not given by the game end means. When finished, special gaming state transition means for transitioning to a special gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state;
Even in the case of transition to the special gaming state, the small role probability fixing means that does not change the probability of winning the small role in the internal lottery for each game;
When the special game state is entered and a specific condition is satisfied, the probability of winning the special winning type different from the small role and the special winning type in the internal lottery is changed higher than the normal gaming state. Special winning probability changing means to
A setting means for setting a set value that defines the level of profits given to the player in a plurality of stages within a predetermined range;
A winning probability defining means for determining a winning probability of the internal lottery based on a set value set by the setting means;
When receiving a predetermined changing operation, setting changing means for changing a setting value set by the setting means based on the changing operation within the specified range;
A change operation input means for inputting the change operation to the setting change means;
A setting change state switching unit that switches between a state in which the input of the change operation to the setting change unit is possible and a state in which the input of the change operation is impossible;
A setting value display means for displaying a current setting value set by the setting means when the setting change state switching means is switched to a state where the input of the change operation to the setting change means is possible;
When the change operation is input to the setting change unit in a state in which the change operation can be input to the setting change unit, the set value candidate that switches the current set value to a set value that becomes a candidate after the change Switching means;
When a specific change confirmation operation is received in a state where the change operation can be input to the setting change unit, the setting value that is a candidate after the change at the time of reception is changed by the setting change unit A game machine characterized by comprising a change confirmation means for confirming as a value.

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